Vice President JD Vance was met with protests during his visit to Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, where he paid tribute to the victims of a recent mass shooting. Vance and his wife, Usha, stood in silence before a statue of the Virgin Mary before meeting with survivors and grieving families inside. Outside, demonstrators held signs like “protect kids not guns” and shouted at the vice president, accusing him of inaction on gun violence.

The protest came in response to a mass shooting during a school Mass on August 27, in which 23-year-old Robin Westman killed two children and injured 21 others. Authorities said Westman legally purchased a rifle, pistol, and shotgun used in the attack. The FBI is investigating the incident as domestic terrorism with anti-religious motives. Westman, who transitioned in 2019, had no prior criminal record.

After the visit, Vance spoke with reporters, calling the experience both “heartbreaking” and “gratifying.” He shared stories from the victims’ families, describing the deep grief and resilience they showed. He emphasized the importance of remembering the children rather than focusing on the shooter.

Vance highlighted the personalities of the two children killed—Harper Moyski, a young girl proud of her first communion, and Fletcher Merkel, an energetic boy with a vibrant spirit. He also urged the public to pray for a third child still in critical condition, echoing the wishes of the victims’ families.

When asked about concerns related to gender dysphoria and school safety, Vance said investigations should target anyone planning to harm children, stressing the need to address root causes and prevent dangerous individuals from accessing guns.

The tragedy has renewed national debates around gun control, mental health, and ideological violence. Vance pledged to honor the victims by being a better father and advocating for meaningful prevention measures.